2019: AAAS Symposium: Persistence of Sexual Minorities in the STEM Pipeline – from Education to Workplace

A growing body of research has begun to document the ways that LGBTQ+ people in STEM fields can experience hostile work and study environments. Gender and sexuality also continue to be areas of identity less discussed in conversations about diversity in educational and industry spaces. In this session, three researchers will present findings from their work that focus on the consequences of heteronormativity and anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination on reduced productivity in STEM. The first study draws on National Science Foundation networks to investigate workplace conditions for LGBTQ professionals, the second investigates queer experiences in graduate education and career spaces, and the third documents challenges faced by LGBQ undergraduate STEM majors. This session aims to generate new ideas in collaboration with attendees and develop practical action steps to increase inclusivity in STEM spaces. Each speaker will position their work in the context of larger conversations about pipeline issues and representation in STEM fields. The session will conclude with a facilitated whole group discussion that will result in a set of concrete recommendations for policy and practice, to be consolidated in a document published online and distributed to all attendees following the conference.